This brother was only 16! Ya basta! Enough is enough!
I’m sick and tired of this. Youth killing youth. Its happening in my community. I’m sure it is happening in yours. Every hood has its issues. We all have a responsibility to our communities. Chicago and its public school system has been spiraling downward for some time. Last year there was a horrible weekend that ended with 30 wounded by gunfire from AK47′s and other weapons. Children were being beaten by teachers. And like many cities there are glimmers of light and progress, but overall, the children have been overlooked. Overlooked by politicians, government officials, makers of public policy and ourselves. We must look at the Black Power Movement and Steve Biko’s Black Consciousness Movement although this may seem aged and preachy to some. Our knowledge of self has been replaced by self hatred. For a brother no older than 16 to attack one of his peers, delivering a lethal blow, there has to be a lot of pain and misguided anger inside.
All of the violence indicates a deep disregard for human life and how desensitized we’ve become as Africans in Amerikkka. Countless organizations and religious groups such as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, Nation of Islam, US Organization, and Black Panther Party for Self Defense have addressed the needs of Africans in Amerikkka. These organizations have been demonized and or neutralized, but their efforts have birthed numerous non-profits and after-school programs.
I’m urging us all to do something. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Tutor some kids. Become a mentor. Sign petitions. Write to public officials and organize to put pressure on them so programs are funded that address our needs. Do something. Being in America means that we have to take responsibility for America.
I’m venting.
